[pct-l] re dogmatism

[hiker at godlikebuthumble.com (Hiker)]

At 02:51 PM 1/12/04, CMountainDave@aol.com wrote:
>  He worked at building their self
>confidence, not through training but with attitude. That is what made
>inexperienced people safe

That, and being led by an experienced Guide.

After all, his clients were about to test their metal with little or no 
time for training. And yes attitude and boldness can get you through 
sometimes, especially when alloyed with an experienced leader. Other times 
it just gets you into serious trouble.

That being said, the primary use of this forum is preparation and planning, 
and most thru-hikers are not paying guides to go with them. There is still 
time for training at this point in time, and if scaring people into buying 
an Ice Axe and getting training (or at least reading about self-arrest) 
works, then it might just save some lives.

And planning what to do before it happens (like facing a steep snow slope 
or a raging river) usually leads to better decisions in the field, even if 
the pre conceived plans themselves change. As General Dwight D. Eisenhower 
said: "Plans are worthless. Planning is essential."

Hiker
"Walk softly and carry a belt-fed weapon."